Tag Archives: Parks & Recreation Department

Roundup: Fine Arts Winner, Compo Kickoff, Leaf Blower Blowback …

Posted on May 26, 2024 | 18 comments

Many things make the Westport Fine Arts Festival special.

Besides the wide variety of art and artists — and the friendly vibe all along Main Street — there is the Saturday night artists’ reception.

After a long day of chatting up customers (and just-lookers), dozens of painters, photographers, sculptors, jewelers, ceramists and woodworkers gather at Christ & Holy Trinity’s Branson Hall a few yards away.

They relax, over good food (and an open bar).

There are a couple of brief speeches thanking the Westport Downtown Association organizers. Then come the awards.

This year’s “Best in Show” winner was GM Webb of Baltimore. A sculptor working with wire, his selection was roundly applauded by his fellow artists.

Click here to see some of his work. Better yet, head down to Main Street today, to see it in person — and all his fellow artists’ too.

The Fine Arts Festival runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

GM Webb, with his “Best in Show” ribbon. (Photo/Dan Woog)

================================================

The Fine Arts Festival is in its 51st year.

The Parks & Recreation Department’s Summer Kickoff party at Compo Beach is in its first.

But it too was a huge success yesterday.

A couple of hundred families enjoyed activities like touch-a-truck, face painting, an obstacle course, and activities run by Longshore Sailing School, and golf and tennis instructors.

Plus (of course) food trucks.

Westport Police, Fire Department, EMS and Public Works were involved too.

Congratulations to all, for the start of a great new tradition.

Selectwomen Andrea Moore and Jen Tooker, Parks & Recreation interim director Rick Giunta and operations manager Carm Roda join Parks & Rec employees at the Compo Beach Kickoff.

==================================================

There was even more going on yesterday than the Fine Arts Festival and Compo Summer Kickoff.

The Levitt Pavilion hosted 3 bands — Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, Andy Frasco & The UN, and Dogs in a Pile — in an hours-long festival.

Just like Main Street and the beach, the place was packed.

Just one more example of why, if you left town for the holiday weekend — well, you missed a lot of fun.

Levitt Pavilion 3-band festival. (Photo/Alex Sherman)

=================================================

One of the unfortunate consequences of the gas-powered leaf blower ban that went into effect May 15 has been harassment of landscapers.

“06880” has heard of several instances in which Westporters have screamed at employees using the blowers, demanding they stop, then growing even angrier when the men do not know why they’re being yelled at. Some do not even speak English.

Landscapers work for their employers. Their employers work for homeowners.

It’s unfair to blame men who are simply doing the job they’re instructed to do.

It’s also the easy way out.

Talk to the homeowner. Call the landscape company owner.

And to report a violation, email ckelly@westportct.gov, or write: Conservation Department, 110 Myrtle Avenue, Westport, CT 06880.

These are not the people to yell at.

==================================================

The Staples boys lacrosse team did it for the first time: winning the FCIAC (league) championship, in dramatic fashion. (Click here to read the stirring story.)

And Charlie Scott has done it again.

The Staples High School senior has produced another spectacular highlight reel of Thursday’s huge win.

It’s the latest in his year-long series of great videos. And it may be his best yet.

Click below to see:

==================================================

Last night’s perfect holiday weather brought the first big outdoor dining crowd of spring to Church Lane.

Tables outside Spotted Horse, The Blondinit and Pink Sumo were all filled. It was a hint of many more such nights to come.

Today is predicted to be cloudy. As for Memorial Day … uh oh.

Dining al fresco at Spotted Horse. (Photo/Dan Woog)

======================================================

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo features blue-eyed grass, growing at the base of a spicebush. Both plants are native to our region, says photographer Melissa Chang.

==================================================

And finally … Sally Ride was born on this day in 1951. She was the first American female astronaut, the youngest American astronaut to have flown in space (32 years old), and the first astronaut known to be LGBT. She died of pancreatic cancer in 2012, age 61.

==================================================

(As Westport heads into summer, “06880” is your place to find out what’s happening, where and when. Plus what just happened. Please support our work, by clicking here to contribute. Thanks!)

18 Comments

Posted in Arts, Beach, Downtown, Entertainment, Environment, Restaurants, Sports, Staples HS

Tagged , , , , ,

Roundup: Parks & Rec Summer Kickoff, CLASP Taste, VFW & Legion …

Posted on May 23, 2024 | Comments Off on Roundup: Parks & Rec Summer Kickoff, CLASP Taste, VFW & Legion …

It’s the start of a great new tradition.

Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department invites everyone to a “Kickoff to Summer party” this Saturday (May 25, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Compo Beach).

They’ve partnered with the Police and Fire Departments, EMS and Public Works for touch-a-truck and safety demonstrations.

Kids’ activities will be run by Longshore Sailing School, and golf and tennis instructors. There’s face painting and an obstacle course too.

There will be food trucks on site. Everyone will receive a raffle ticket, with a chance at 4 great prizes.

Everyone is invited back at 8 p.m., for a movie night.

It’s all free. Everyone is welcome (but no pets, please!).

==================================================

Yesterday’s capacity crowd at The Inn at Longshore spanned all ages. Many were longtime Westporters; some moved here a year or two ago.

The cuisine included Italian, seafood, Southern, dumplings, steak — and plenty of desserts. A variety of vendors poured drinks.

There were enough auction items to satisfy every wish (and price point). The Bar Car Band played all night long.

Gabriele’s Steakhouse (foreground) was one of many serving stations at last night’s Taste of Westport.

The 18th annual Taste of Westport was — as always — one of the best fundraisers of the year.

CLASP Homes — the non-profit that provides care, support and services to adults with autism and other intellectual and developmental disabilities — was the beneficiary of all that generosity.

If you’ve never been to the Taste of Westport: Don’t miss it next year.

If you were there last night: Well, you know you don’t need to eat anything more for a while.

PS: Thanks to all the food and drink providers: Grumpy Dumpling, Pastaficio, Jose Cuevo, Little Pub, La Plage, Magic Pie Co., Mrs. London’s Bakery, Nordic Fish, Nômade, Rive Bistro, Rizzuto’s, Romanacci Pizza Bar, Sono 1420, Tarantino, Walrus Alley, Zucca Gastrobar, Artisan, Aspetuck Brew Lab, Black Bear Wines & Spirits, Baldanza Schoolhouse, Bridgewater Chocolate, Boathouse, Chopin Vodka, Cold Fusion, Don Memo, Dunville’s, Ferrer Miranda, Freixenet, Gabriele’s Italian Steakhouse, Greer Southern Table, Coramino Tequila and Gruel Brittania.

1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker (center) is flanked by former 1st Selectman Jim Marpe, and his wife Mary Ellen. (Photos/Dan Woog)

==================================================

Speaking of summer: Yesterday’s Roundup noted that the ice cream stand at The Porch at Christie’s will be open this Memorial Day weekend, starting at noon on Saturday.

They’re still trying to figure out the best hours. If you’ve got suggestions, email lindsay@lindsayshandmade.com.

Opening soon!

=================================================

Members of VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399, Sons of August Matthias American Legion Post 63 and the American Legion Auxiliary, joined together this week to unveil their Memorial Day parade banner.

All 3 groups will march together on Monday.

Then they got to work on their float. The theme is a secret — but they encourage all Westporters to come to the parade, and see it.

Membership in the American Legion or women’s Auxiliary is just $20, with proof of a family member who actively served in the military.

Members memorialize their loved one, carry on his or her story, and remember the ultimate sacrifice of over 2.5 million Americans, who helped us be the free nation we are today. For more information, email Andrew Colabella: acolabellartm4@gmail.com.

==================================================

Westport Police made 3 custodial arrests between May 15 and 22.

A 47-year-old Westport woman was arrested for disorderly conduct, violation of a protective order, assault and threatening, following a domestic violence incident.

A 36-year-old Leonia, New Jersey man was arrested for identity theft and larceny, after a complaint by a Westporter that a check for $25,000 had been taken from a residential mailbox, altered and cashed.

A 52-year-old Norwalk man was arrested for failure to appear.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 5 citations
  • Failure to comply with state traffic commission regulations: 5
  • Following too closely: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
  • Failure to renew registration: 2
  • Evading responsibility, with injury: 1
  • Traveling too fast for conditions: 1
  • Passing in a no-passing zone: 1
  • Driving while texting: 1
  • Distracted driving: 1
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 1

==================================================

“When Merrily We Roll Along” opened on Broadway 43 years ago, it ran for just 16 performances.

A revival opened last year, and became a huge hit.

What happened?

“Tend Your Dream: An Oral History of ‘Merrily We Roll Along'” explores the long, strange route from theatrical flop to beloved classic.

The video was conceived by Westporter Tommy Greenwald, a longtime veteran of the Broadway marketing and ad scene. Greenwald — a 1979 Staples High School graduate — also served as creative director.

The video (below) includes original cast member Jim Walton, plus critics Ben Brantley and Frank Rich, actors Daniel Radcliffe, Jonathan Groff and others.

Besides Greenwald’s project, “Merrily” has other Westport connections.

Three decades before he wrote its music and lyrics, Stephen Sondheim was a Westport Country Playhouse apprentice.

And Staples Players has produced the show twice, including 2002. That year, Groff’s part — composer Franklin Shepard — was played by Justin Paul.

After graduating that spring, Paul went on to an actual — and noted — composing career of his own. With Benj Pasek, he’s written (among others) “Dear Evan Hansen,” “The Greatest Showman” and “La La Land.”

Justin Paul (right) in Staples Players’ “Merrily We Roll Along.” (Photo/Kerry Long)

=======================================================

Red squirrels are having a great time in the Long Lots Preserve.

Lou Weinberg — who shot today’s “Westport … Naturally” photo — says: “This one decided to nest, store food or do both in one of the hollowed-out logs.

“An abundance of black walnuts in the preserve helps support the healthy red squirrel population.”

(Photo/Lou Weinberg)

==================================================

And finally … on this date in 1829 in Vienna, Cyrill Demian received a patent for the accordion.

(Summer is near — and as always, “06880” will tell you everything you need to know. We rely on our readers to help do it. Please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

Comments Off on Roundup: Parks & Rec Summer Kickoff, CLASP Taste, VFW & Legion …

Posted in Beach, Children, Entertainment, Local business, Police, Restaurants

Tagged , , , , , , ,

Parks & Rec Director Jen Fava Resigns

Posted on April 24, 2024 | 26 comments

As the busy summer season nears, Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department is searching for a new director.

Jennifer has resigned, effective May 8. She will assume a new position, as director of the Darien Parks & Recreation Department.

Deputy director Rick Giunta will take over on an interim basis, until a permanent director is named.

Jennifer Fava

Fava began her Westport career on September 1, 2015. The University of Massachusetts graduate’s previous position had been in North Hempstead, Long Island.

She told “06880” then that her background there — including managing golf courses, marinas and beaches — would be very helpful here.

This afternoon, Fava told “06880” that, among other accomplishments in Westport, she is particularly proud of the South Beach restroom project, the redevelopment of Riverside Park, and re-turfing of athletic fields.

Parks & Rec is in the initial stages of a 10-year capital improvement project for Longshore Club park. “I hope people keep moving it forward,” she said.

Fava added, “It’s been a good ride. Darien is an exciting opportunity.”

She thanked “all the people I’ve worked with in Westport: elected officials, town committees, the Parks & Rec Commission and volunteers.”

Fava’s tenure involved several controversies, including awarding the Compo Beach concession contract to Hook’d; the possible relocation of the Westport Community Gardens, and concerns about maintenance of the town’s grass fields.

26 Comments

Posted in Local politics, Longshore

Tagged ,

Parks & Rec Okays User Fees For Youth, Adult Leagues And Fields

Posted on April 8, 2024 | 6 comments

Westport’s sports landscape may soon change dramatically.

At least, the fee structure part of it could.

In a decision that seems to have escaped public notice, the Parks & Recreation Commission voted 5-0 last Wednesday in favor of a proposal to begin charging rental fees to youth and adult leagues, sports camps and others requesting exclusive use of field facilities.

The new charges — which apply to, among others, “Westport-based youth leagues, adult lacrosse league, adult flag football league, adult soccer league, and the adult baseball league”– would be imposed to cover field maintenance costs, Parks & Recreation Department director Jennifer Fava said in a March 15 memo to the Parks & Rec Commission.

The proposal now goes to the Board of Selectwomen, for approval. It has not yet been posted to their meeting agenda.

Those fees — which would begin “for the 2024 fall sports season or September 1” — will augment an increase in the department’s athletic field budget, to “provide additional resources for cultural practices to improve the quality of our playing surfaces.”

The fees for Westport-based groups are:

  • Westport youth leagues: $25 per participant per season
  • Baseball/softball fields: $75 per hour
  • Baseball/softball fields with lights: $105 per hour
  • Synthetic turf fields: $100 per hour
  • Synthetic turf fields with lights: $130 per hour
  • Grass fields: $50 per hour
  • Grass fields with lights: $80 per hour.

The fees for all other non-Westport groups requesting the exclusive use of a field that includes field preparation are:

  • Baseball/softball fields: $150 per hour
  • Baseball/softball fields with lights: $180 per hour
  • Synthetic turf fields: $150 per hour
  • Synthetic turf fields with lights: $180 per hour
  • Grass fields: $100 per hour
  • Grass fields with lights: $130 per hour.

Fees could be imposed on youth and adult league users of Wakeman’s turf and grass fields — and other Parks & Recreation properties — beginning September 1. 

(For more information, click here and scroll down to pages 14-17. Hat tip: Toni Simonetti)

6 Comments

Posted in Local politics, Sports

Tagged , , ,

Roundup: Athletic Field Lights, Jewish Broadway, Staples Tuition Grants …

Posted on March 21, 2024 | Comments Off on Roundup: Athletic Field Lights, Jewish Broadway, Staples Tuition Grants …

In November of 2011, High Point Road residents reached an agreement with Westport’s Planning & Zoning Commission and Parks & Recreation Department regarding the hours that lights at the Staples football stadium (now called Paul Lane Field) could be used. Noise regulations were included too.

The agreement included any other lighted fields in town (the only other one is PJ Romano, behind Saugatuck Elementary School. (Click here to read it.)

The agreement has now expired. Next Thursday (March 28, noon, Zoom), the P&Z’s Recreation Committee will discuss lighting policies for all town athletic fields.

It will also review “Dark Sky compliance and sports field lighting.”

Paul Lane Field at Staples High School. (Photo/Robin Wolfe-Scheffler)

=================================================

The Westport Country Playhouse has just added 2 intriguing events.

“A Place For Us: A Celebration of Jewish Broadway” features Ari Axelrod, as part of the new “Mic in Hand” series.

The May 8 cultural celebration honors the songs and stories of Jewish composers, and their crucial contributions to the American musical.

Axelrod says, “Our history is not only about how we survived, but also about how we thrived. ‘A Place for Us’ highlights this in its exploration of Jewish Broadway.”

The show was presented first last year to a sold-out house, as the first Mic in Hand (a spin-off of the Playhouse’s popular Script in Hand series). This year’s show will include more songs and musicians. Click here for tickets, and more information.

On Saturday, March 30 (2 p.m.), “table-top puppetry meets pro wrestling meets a rock show; high art meets low art meets Samuel Beckett.”

Kayfabe — an hour-long “frenetic frenzy of puppet wrestling action,” is “a semi-autobiographical meta-fictional love letter to professional wrestling, written, directed and designed by aspiring wrestler and inspired puppet artist Josh Rice.”

It is recommended for ages 13 and up. Click here for tickets, and more information.

Ari Axelrod

=============================================

A snafu with FAFSA — the Free Application for Federal Student Aid — has delayed college financial aid decisions for many high school students.

As a result, applications for Staples Tuition Grants — the 81-year-old program that last year awarded $407,000 to more than 100 members of the Class of 2023, and other graduates already in college — are down from this time last year.

STG officials urge students to submit applications before the April 22 deadline — even without knowing specific aid packages from universities.

Also down this year: contributions to the STG General Fund. The organization relies on donor support — along with endowed funds — to help close the gap between what college costs, and what students’ families can afford

More than 500 individuals, families and organizations donated to Staples Tuition Grants in the 2023 fiscal year. To help reach that number again, click here.

=================================================

Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between March 13 and 20.

A man was arrested for assault, and intimidation due to bias/bigotry, after a fight at St. Vincent’s Behavioral Health. The incident was unprovoked, and occurred because of the victim’s race.

A woman was charged with issuing a bad check over $2,000, following a complaint by a local business owner.

Westport Police also issued these citations:

  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 5 citations
  • Speeding: 3
  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 3
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
  • Improper use of markers: 3
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 2
  • Failure to renew registration: 2
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 2
  • Assault: 1
  • Breach of peace: 1
  • Distracted driving: 1
  • Failure to drive in the proper lane: 1
  • Failure to obey stop sign: 1
  • Failure to obey state traffic commission regulations: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Failure to renew license: 1

=================================================

Sorelle Gallery’s newest exhibit opened yesterday. Abstract artist Teodoro Guererra will be featured through April 10.

Guererra uses impasto techniques, with thick coats of paint layered over each other for a light 3-dimensional effect. Click here for more information.

Teodoro Guererra’s works, at Sorelle Gallery.

=================================================

La Plage’s Mother’s Day menu is set (click here to see).

It’s May 12 (noon to 7 p.m.; $95 3-course prix fixe; $55 for young adults). Reservations are required: 203-684-6232.

=================================================

We’ve all heard the tale that it’s only possible to balance an egg upright on the spring equinox.

That’s not true. There is no gravitational change that day; if you have the right egg (and a ton of patience), you can do it any day.

But Marie Gross tried Tuesday night (technically, the day after this year’s equinox). Here’s the result:

(Photo/Marie Gross)

=============================================

Dana Kuyper was the first Westporter to photograph the 2024 ospreys, at Fresh Market. We posted her image yesterday.

Today’s “Westport … Naturally” feature shows the first close-up of the magnificent raptors:

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

==================================================

And finally … we’re not sure exactly what songs will be sung at the Westport Country Playhouse’s upcoming “Celebration of Jewish Broadway.”

But it’s sure to be filled with …

(Here’s a great tradition: supporting “06880.” Please click here, to make a tax-deductible contribution to Westport’s hyper-local blog. Thank you!)

Comments Off on Roundup: Athletic Field Lights, Jewish Broadway, Staples Tuition Grants …

Posted in Arts, Local business, Local politics, Police, Restaurants, Sports, Staples HS, Totally random, Westport Country Playhouse

Tagged , , , ,

Roundup: Jesup Lot Parking Plan, Dunville’s Update, Parks & Rec Registration …

Posted on February 22, 2024 | 16 comments

Parker Harding and Jesup Green parking plans are moving forward.

On March 6 (7:30 p.m., Zoom), the Flood & Erosion Control Board meets to consider the 2 riverside lots.

Forty-two additional spots are proposed for the Jesup Green (lower Westport Library) parking area. Work includes restriping, minor grading, the removal and relocation of some trees, and a new retaining wall.

The new spaces will replace those lost in the Parker Harding renovation, as it is brought into compliance with ADA and safety standards.

The site plan is below. For a larger version, and other material related to the Jesup and Parker Harding lot project, click here.

Click on or hover over to enlarge.

==================================================

After Tuesday’s “06880” Roundup report that Dunville’s closed suddenly last week, several readers noted that the Riverside Avenue’s Facebook page said: “Hi everybody, we’ll be closed for a little spring cleaning and then some vacation until Friday, March 1st. BRB!”

The post was accompanied by a photo of a Jimmy Buffett-style beach scene.

Usually, owners howl directly when I get something wrong. I reached out to Dunville’s owner before posting the story, but still have not heard back from him, or any representative.

Meanwhile, rumors are rampant in town that the popular, 40-year-old bar has been, or will be, bought by Little Pub.

I contacted the Little Pub owner for comment, but also did not hear back.

Dunville’s

=================================================

Parks & Recreation Department spring and summer programs are now viewable online (click here).

There are 2 online registration dates.

Tuesday, March 5 (9 a.m.) if for Camp Compo and RECing Crew only.

Wednesday, March 6 (9 a.m.) is for all other spring and summer programs. Registration also continues for Camp Compo and RECing Crew.

If a program is full, names can be added to the waitlist. There is no charge at that time.

Parents should click here to access their account.

Log into your profile and choose “Manage Family Member” on the bottom right. This brings you to the “My Family Members” page. Click on the first name in the column. In “Family Member Information,” verify date of birth, and make sure that children’s grades are correct (it is the grade going into as of September 2024). Hit “Save” at the bottom. Complete the process for every family member.

For address changes, email recreation@westportct.gov. Problems? Email recreation@westportct.gov or call 203-341-5152. Office hours are weekdays, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

==================================================

Sons of the American Legion Squadron 63 have elected Andrew Colabella as squadron commander, and Mark Shornick as treasurer.

Both honor the legacy of family military service. All male descendants of US veterans who served honorably are eligible for membership,

Sons of The American Legion Squadron 63 is part of VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 on Riverside Avenue.

Mark Shornick and Andrew Colabella, at their Sons of American Legion Squadron 63 swearing-in.

==================================================

Want to be the next Stephen Sondheim?

You may not write “West Side Story,” “Gypsy” or “Into the Woods.” But — if you are at least 20 years old — you can do what Sondheim did when he was at Williams College: become a Westport Country Playhouse intern.

Applications are open through March 8 for the Joanne Woodward Internship Program. Interns work closely with Playhouse staff each summer — as they’ve done ever since the 1940s.

Opportunities are available in marketing, development/fundraising, general production, and community engagement. Interns also attend weekly seminars with guest speakers, including Playhouse staffers, visiting designers and artists, commercial producers and more.

This year’s program runs from May 28 through July 31. The stipend is $630 per week. Housing is provided, if needed. For more information and to apply, click here.

Stephen Sondheim (crouching, top of photo), during his 1950 apprenticeship. Also in the photo: future film director Frank Perry (front row, left) and Richard Rodgers’ daughter Mary (2nd row, 4th from left).

==================================================

Westport Police made 2 custodial arrests between February 14 and 21.

A man was arrested for unlawful restraint, following an investigation into a domestic abuse complaint.

A man was arrested for threatening, after a complaint that the 18-year-old would kill his former partner.

Police also issued these citations:

  • Traveling unreasonably fast: 5 complaints
  • Operating an unregistered motor vehicle: 3
  • Failure to obey stop signs: 3
  • Failure to obey traffic control signals: 3
  • Distracted driving: 2
  • Failure to remove snow/ice from roof: 1
  • Improper use of markers: 2
  • Failure to comply with dog ownership requirements: 1
  • Permitting a dog to roam at large: 1
  • School zone violation: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle under suspension: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without a license: 1
  • Failure to insure a motor vehicle: 1
  • Operating a motor vehicle without minimum insurance: 1
  • Unreadable plates: 1
  • Failure to register a commercial vehicle: 1

So cute! But you can’t let dogs roam! (Photo/Helen Martin)

==================================================

Maple syrup season is near.

And Dasha Horton, Natalie Glidden and Sean Fitzpatrick are ready.

On February 24 and March 2 (10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Wakeman Town Farm), they’ll talk about tapping and producing syrup, answer questions about how to tap trees at home, and show off WTF’s homestead-sized evaporator.

They’re all-weather farmers. Soo they’ll also answer questions about summer gardens.

The Maple Sugaring Days are free; go any time during the 2 sessions.

People of all ages love maple syrup — and making it.

==================================================

David Waldman discussed local real estate, at Tuesday’s Westport Rotary Club lunch.

The lifelong Westport, and founder and president of David Adam Realty, addressed 2 controversial projects: Glendinning Place, and Parker Harding .

David Waldman, at the Westport Rotary Club. (Photo/Ellin Curley)

==================================================

Hark! A hawk!

Johanna Keyser Rossi spotted this “Westport … Naturally” beauty at the Westport Weston Family YMCA.

(Photo/Johanna Keyser Rossi)

==================================================

And finally … Jimmy Van Eaton, Jerry Lee Lewis’ pounding drummer on “Great Balls of Fire” and “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On,” died earlier this month in Alabama, of kidney complications. He was 86.

Click here for a full obituary.

(Goodness gracious! Come along baby! Please click here to support “06880.” Thank you kindly.)

16 Comments

Posted in Children, Downtown, Local politics, Police, Westport Country Playhouse

Tagged , , , , , , , ,

Roundup: Weather Changes, Brandi Chastain, Parkinson’s Group …

Posted on February 13, 2024 | 6 comments

Today’s weather has forced a change for tonight’s Representative Town Meeting,  which will consider an $6.8 million request for design of the new Long Lots Elementary School.

Instead of meeting at Town Hall, the RTM session will be held via Zoom. Click here for the link.

Public comments are limited to 3 minutes. Emails to all members may be sent to RTMmailinglist@westportct.gov.

==================================================

Postponed by the weather: tonight’s “Addressing Incidents of Antisemitism and Bias in our Schools” event, sponsored by Westport Public Schools at Temple Israel.

The new date is March 13 (7:30 p.m). All attendees — in-person and livestream — should register (or re-register) here.

==================================================

Tomorrow’s Board of Selectwomen meeting (Wednesday, February 14, 9 a.m., Town Hall auditorium and livestream) contains this agenda item:
eliminating the requirement of a hand pass to register for participation in Parks & Recreation Department programs.

==================================================

Charlie Tirreno’s plea to Westport’s Planning & Zoning Commission — opposing development of a house on Riverside Avenue, which would disrupt the nests of eagles along the Saugatuck River — drew several supporting comments on “06880.”

It also elicited a photo of an eagle nesting by th eriver, from Louis Mall. The Representative Town Meeting member — whose district includes that neighborhood — sent this photo, taken by his wife Joan yesterday:

(Photo/Joan Mall)

=================================================

A dozen or so Westporters worked up an appetite for Sunday’s Super Bowl with a trash pick-up. They began at Grace Salmon Park on Imperial Avenue, and worked their way north.

RTM member Andrew Colabella, who organized the event, reports:

A total success for today’s pick. The high tide dampened our goal to obtain all trash; however we made do with what we could grab.

As it gets warmer, I would implore all residents to take advantage of the Saugatuck river to kayak and canoe, and to bring a picker with them. Dog walkers as well.

Instead of wrapping up your dog’s waste and flinging it into the woods, find a trash receptacle, or bring a trash bag and pick. I know many residents who do this during the week.

I was very happy to see so many residents turn out. In fact, a lot of people who were just walking inquired about the trash clean-ups.

Everyone gets into the act.

==================================================

For 72 years, STAR Lighting the Way has provided services for people of all ages impacted by intellectual and developmental disabilities.

On April 4, their annual spring fundraising — always a sellout — will have its own “star”: soccer legend Brandi Chastain.

The US women’s national team World Cup and Olympic champion, and Hall of Famer — whose celebration in a sports bra after her winning penalty kick again China was an instant iconic photo, and who now helps underserved girls learn leadership and motivational skills through the power of sports will speak at the Country Club of New Canaan on April 4.

Chastain joins a list of previous speaking stars that includes Mia Farrow, Barbara Bush, Jenna Bush Hager and Norah O’Donnell.

The gourmet luncheon includes a Champagne shopping boutique, goody bag, a signed copy of Chastain’s Book “It’s Not About the Bra,” and a Q-and-A session. Westport photographer Miggs Burroughs will snap photos of guests with Chastain.

Tickets are $250. To purchase tickets or become a sponsor, click here or email psaverine@starct.org.

==================================================

Bob Levy writes: “All for one and one for all.”

“As a kid I loved The 3 Musketeers, and their fierce loyalty to one another.  Who knew that all these years later I would find them again at the Westport Weston Family YMCA,

“As a member, I already though I had discovered a gem in our community. But volunteering for Parkinson Body and Mind truly confirmed it.

“The Greenwich-based organization runs numerous Yprograms demonstrating the health benefits of boxing for people with Parkinson’s. Our boxing program, through the superb leadership of Brenda Waldron, consistently shows improvements in balance, strength and memory for the participants.

“In addition, what I have witnessed is extraordinary, magical and enviable.  The group, who met as strangers, morphed into a loving family whose support for each other extends way beyond the walls of the Y. They are truly ‘all for one and one for all!'”

Yesterday, Bob handed “Knock Parkinson’s Out” t-shirts to everyone in the group. He added a sentence from The Book of Psalms: “There is strength in our souls.”

==================================================

This week’s Jazz at the Post show features vocalist Pete McGuinness.

A New York jazz treasure since the 1980s, the trombonist on Maria Schneider’s Grammy-winning “Concert in the Garden” is known for his improvisational prowess, and creative arrangements for his own Pete McGuiness Jazz Orchestra.  His recordings have been nominated for 3 Grammys.

McGuinness will be joined on February 15 (7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; dinner serve at 7; VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399; $20 music cover, $15 for students and veterans) by pianist Ted Kooshian, bassist Mark Wade, drummer Scott Neumann and saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall.

Reservations are strongly suggested: JazzatthePost@gmail.com.

==================================================

Today’s weather is a bit different than yesterday’s.

Here was the “Westport … Naturally” scene 24 hours ago: a lone clammer enjoying Long Island Sound:

(Photo/M. Fortuna)

==================================================

And finally … Henry Fambrough, the last surviving original member of the recent Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees the Spinners, died last week in Virginia. He was 85.

Though the R&B group had several hits in the 1970s, they were formed in 1954, and — with different members — still tour today. Click here for a full obituary.

(Stuck inside in this winter weather? You can pass some time — and show your support for “06880” — by making a tax-deductible donation. Just click here. Thank you. PS: Stay warm and dry!)

6 Comments

Posted in Education, Environment, Local politics, Real estate, religion

Tagged , , , , , , , ,

Westport Baseball: Move Ahead With Long Lots Now; Address Field Use Later

Posted on January 22, 2024 | 22 comments

Westport Baseball & Softball has added its voice to the Long Lots Elementary School renovation debate. Chair Jeff White and president Jeff Brill say:

As expressed in our joint submission with Staples Baseball to the Long Lots Elementary School Building Committee on September 20, which was not then shared with Planning & Zoning, Westport Baseball & Softball — a volunteer-led non-profit organization — from the outset of the discussions regarding the future of LLES has sought only to maintain the status quo for the availability of a multipurpose field at Long Lots in any go-forward planning.

The land contiguous to LLS should continue to be blessed with athletic fields for youth use, much like the other Westport elementary schools.

We strongly encourage you to read this joint submission, and Westport Baseball’s more recent submission on January 17. They explain the need to retain a baseball field based on available resources and participation in Westport baseball programs. and our preference not to displace the Community Gardens.

Our request and recommendation had been very narrow and reasonable. We had previously asked that the LLESBC simply prepare plans in a revised 8-24 application that preserve the flexibility of including a full-size baseball field on the multipurpose field that would be shared with other sports, including girls’ sports.

There is no need to prescribe any specific usage (beyond youth athletics) of the field(s) years in advance of availability and further delay school construction.

Leaders of the various Westport sports programs can make their respective cases to the appropriate town constituencies to utilize the multiuse field down the road. P&Z does not require such specificity at this time, and the Long Lots students, teachers, administrators and community should not have to endure further delay.

Westport Baseball has never requested a full-size baseball field dedicated to baseball, much less a so-called “Babe Ruth” field. There is no such concept of a “Babe Ruth field,” unless one is referring to Yankee Stadium or Fenway Park where Ruth played. This became a cute phrase used pejoratively by opposition groups throughout the December 17th P&Z meeting and in subsequent propaganda.

Our desired multipurpose field includes a 60/90 foot infield that is easily designed to fit within 2-3 acres that would permit up to 8 Westport town youth teams (not special interest or for-profit travel organizations), including the Staples freshman team, to play thereon.

Baseball field experts remain available to discuss with the LLESBC how to configure the space to accommodate a full-size baseball field within the multipurpose field. We want to work collaboratively with the LLESBC and P&Z to develop a solution that serves multiple youth sports. We continue to respectfully request an opportunity to exchange ideas and share expertise.

The current 8-24 proposal calls for a “multipurpose” field south of a new Long Lots Elementary School.

There is not one full-size field in Westport that is dedicated exclusively to baseball for players ages 13 and older, unlike in other towns. Wakeman and even the Staples baseball field are mixed use fields.

We echo the real concerns raised by Parks & Rec, the Westport Soccer Association and PAL regarding field stress of Westport’s heavily used grass fields.

It is already very challenging for Parks and Recreation to schedule practices and home games across programs. Reducing field space for baseball has a domino effect, reducing availability of fields for other sports given the shared fields. P&Z has repeatedly referenced concern regarding “intensification of use” of land. Eliminating this baseball field exacerbates this issue.

Opponents of a baseball field referenced outdated enrollment figures for older players and field utilization by such players. Those players unfortunately will never have the opportunity to play on a new field at LLES. It is the wrong data set.

Current numbers of players on a particular team does not augur future seasons’ participation numbers; the numbers fluctuate for a variety of reasons, including the recent rise in student population.

Young Westport baseball players greet their Staples High School heroes.

Westport Baseball has been asked why it has not been more vocal and active in the ongoing debate regarding the use of the LLES field space. Our only formal action prior to a call last week with chair Paul Lebowitz and submission of our request was to send the joint submission and commenting via our leaders at public meetings.

We have remained quiet and cordial in our limited interactions, and have neither lobbied nor partnered with other organizations, as we sought neither to delay the commencement of school construction nor to further polarize and inflame the discourse.

We have only recently learned that we have apparently been penalized for being good sports and remaining on the sidelines. Westport Baseball and our baseball community is the only organization/populace that has been deprived of any accommodation as a result of bifurcation and the modified 8-24 application.

The informed Westport Baseball community was incredulous to learn that in the letter accompanying the 8-24 application, baseball (and no other activity) has been inexplicably singled out and expressly excluded.

Prohibitions on use of or access to a public field via restrictive covenant are seldomly imposed except when serving to protect the public.

We are not aware of any similar express restriction on a field in Westport. No sport should be identified as a prohibited utilization of the field(s) at this time.

It is our understanding that P&Z has required an express prohibition on baseball in order to approve the then forthcoming 8-24 application. The decision was not ripe and evidences a lack of due process, fair consideration and foresight.

We respectfully request that P&Z acknowledge at the meeting on January 22 that baseball is not a prohibited use of the field(s) at LLS or the deletion of this arbitrary prohibition from the letter. That is our only request at this time.

As explained in our January 18 statement, there is no need to prescribe any specific athletic use or purpose for the field(s). That is what “multipurpose” has been intended to contemplate and represents a compromise.

Westport Baseball and other youth sports organizations can advocate for Long Lots field use at the planning phase without causing any further delay in the construction of the school.

22 Comments

Posted in Children, Education, Environment, Local politics, Sports

Tagged , , , ,

Roundup: Traffic Task Force, Compo Beach Playground, Halloween Weekend …

Posted on October 27, 2023 | 4 comments

Two dozen residents heard an update last night from the Traffic & Pedestrian Safety Task Force, at Town Hall.

Representatives from the Police, Fire and Public Works Departments, and town operations director Tom Kiely, offered updates on the coordinated effort to identify and address trouble spots.

They provided statistics — 491 special enforcement details over the past 6 months, and 2,526 traffic stops — along with tangible actions, like a new 4-way stop sign at Hillandale and West Parish Roads, and sidewalks on Main Street, Compo Road North and Cross Highway.

Traffic & Pedestrian Safety Task Force members (from left): Deputy Fire Chief Nick Marsan, Police Staff Corporal Al D’Amura, Deputy Police Chief Ryan Paulsson, town operations director Tom Kiely, town engineer Keith Wilberg, Public Works director Pete Ratkiewich. 1st Selectwoman Jen Tooker also attended. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Then many residents offered trouble spots of their own.

Several mentioned Kings Highway North (east of the speed humps). Others  spoke about Bayberry Lane, Imperial Avenue, Thomas Avenue, and Harbor Road on Saugatuck Shores.

A resident wants a traffic agent at Treadwell Avenue starting at 3 p.m., to handle Saugatuck Rowing Club traffic.

One person asked police to teach children about pedestrian safety. Another wondered how Westporters can help push the state Department of Transportation to move beyond its glacial pace. (One example: The town has been requesting left-turn arrows at the Compo Road South/Greens Farms Road/Bridge Street light for 3 years.)

One resident suggested painting “Don’t block the box” rectangles at intersections like Post Road West/Riverside Avenue/Wilton Road, then installing cameras and fining miscreants.

Another wondered why she never sees police ticketing drivers who run red lights on the Post Road near Trader Joe’s and Compo Road.

One Westporter urged Public Works to request more staff.

Last night’s meeting followed 9 other Task Force sessions — one for each Representative Town Meeting district — last year, and a town-wide summary meeting.

“We’ll be back again in 6 months,” promised Deputy Police Chief Ryan Paulsson.

The map on the left shows the location of “enforcement details” between April and October of this year. The one on the right shows the location of traffic stops. (Photos/Dan Woog)

==================================================

As planning progresses for the Compo Beach Playground makeover, organizers want Westporters’ input.

From all ages.

The Westport Rotary Club and Westport Young Woman’s League are partnering on the rebuild. They’re the same great groups that developed the original playground in 1986, and renovated it a couple of decades later.

The Compo Beach Playground Rebuild Committee designed a survey to capture ideas. It doesn’t take long. But residents’ input will help create a fun, safe and much-loved playground.

But act soon! The survey closes Monday (October 30). Click here for the link.

Compo Beach playground: ready for a rebuild. (Drone photo/David Szymanski)

=================================================

VFW Joseph J. Clinton Post 399 kicks off Halloween weekend tonight (Friday, October 27, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.; $5 cover ) with a Happy Hour special.

Beer and wine is $6, with chances at free drinks every hour. The food is (as always) great, and there are prizes for best costumes.

Matt Zako — founder of The City’s Backyard podcast — is host.

================================================

Halloween weekend continues tomorrow (Saturday, October 28, 8 p.m., Westport Library), with a Halloween Concert and Costume Ball.

Costumes are encouraged. Prizes will awarded for best outfits, in several categories. Specialty cocktails, beer and wine complement music by Bella’s Bartok, a funk/pop/folk band.

It is, says the sponsoring Westport Weston Chamber of Commerce, an event “to die for.”

Tickets are $20. Click here to purchase, and for more information.

Bella’s Bartok

=================================================

Speaking of Halloween: Wednesday’s kids’ parade downtown — sponsored by Westport’s Parks & Recreation Department, Westport PAL and the Westport Downtown Association — included these trick-or-treaters, at Town Hall.

Quite a scary bunch, no?

==================================================

Andrew Wilk’s “Library Medical Series” continues Monday (October 30, 7 p.m., Westport Library), with the second of a 3-part series on the brain.

“Headaches and Migraine: Better Understanding the Diagnosis and New Therapies Available” features Dr. Dario Zagar and Dr. Robert Altbaum. A Q-and-A follows their presentation.

The series is free. Click here to register.

From left: Dr. Robert Altbau, Dr. Dario Zagar, Andrew Wilk.

==================================================

The Saugatuck Rowing Club Junior Program had its best-ever overall showing at the Head of The Charles regatta  in Boston this month.

Current and former rowers, now competing for their colleges, contributed to the success.

In a very close finish, the men’s 8+ boat, including Westporters George Bentley, Ben Whelan, Campbell Cohen and Jack Kiely, plus Gavin Marshall of Weston, placed second, behind a late entry from the U.K. That makes them the current fastest men’s youth 8 boat in the US.

The men’s youth 8+ boat.

The women’s U17 4+ boat, with Rylie Cordell and Kate Weitz of Westport, and Anne  Studnicky of Weston, captured gold. That continues SRC’s’ national streak in the category.

The women’s U-17 4+ boat (from left): Grace Baker Kate Weitz, Madeline Casano, Anne Studnicky, Rylie Cordella, coach Cody Silvester.

In other Saugatuck Rowing Club women’s junior news, the public is invited to a special event on November 7 (11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Lululemon).

Rowers from novice and varsity teams will talk about their experiences, and demonstrate their rowing machine workouts. Coaches be available to talk about the benefits of the program. The event includes giveaways from Lululemon and Saugatuck Rowing Club, and treats from GG & Joe’s.

All are invited (schools are not in session, for Election Day).

==================================================

Yesterday’s Roundup included a photo of a porta-potty, nestled in one of the Old Mill garages near Sherwood Mill Pond, and the pedestrian path to Compo Cove.

There’s a back story. (There always is.)

A homeowner on the Cove is having work done. Either the bathrooms don’t work, or they don’t want workers using them. So they set up the portable toilet.

Of course, those potties need to be serviced. Vehicles are not allowed on the Cove.

That’s why it’s there, in the garage.

And here is what that cleaning looked like yesterday:


(Photo/Matt Murray)

==================================================

Yesterday’s near-80 degree temperature surprised (and delighted) many Westporters.

It also confused at least one lilac. Yulee Aronson captured the scene, for our “Westport … Naturally” feature.

(Photo/Yulee Aronson)

Plus, a bonus “Westport … Naturally”: This one is from last night’s flaming sunset.

(Photo/Seth Goltzer)

==================================================

And finally … on this day in 1682, the city of Philadelphia was founded by William Penn, a Quaker who advocated for religious freedom.

(If today’s Roundup helped you plan a fun weekend, throw a bone to “06880.” You can click here to make a contribution. We thank you!)

4 Comments

Posted in Beach, Teenagers

Tagged , , , , , , , , , , ,

Roundup: Trash, Crash …

Posted on January 10, 2023 | 6 comments

Yesterday’s Roundup gave a shout-out to a small group of residents. Each week, they clean up a different part of town.

Several “06880” readers wondered how they could help.

You can email organizer Andrew Colabella (acolabellartm4@gmail.com). He’ll add you to the list.

This Sunday’s clean-up is at the Sherwood Island Connector park-and-ride commuter lot, near I-95 Exit 18 (January 15, 11 a.m.).

Bring gloves and trash bags, and wear shoes or boots you’re not afraid to muddy up.

Meanwhile, one reader snorted, “Where are our people from the Department of Public Works? You know, the folks who get paid to do this?”

Andrew replies: “Our Public Works Department has been extremely responsive to areas I see that need to be cleaned up immediately and cannot wait until the weekend.

“Our Parks and Recreation Department, specifically Ed Frawley’s maintenance department, has picked up garbage in every area where a pick has done and disposed of it properly, while doing their own picks too. Shoutout to David Wilcox and Nick Rosa for removing the garbage after I called and scheduled a pick up,

“You may not seem them doing it but I, and many others have.”

Andrew adds:

“Our town is extremely proactive, because of our residents. If you see trash, pull over and pick it up. Keep a garbage bag under your seat or in the cargo or trunk area of your vehicle.

“If you’re new to town, welcome! Join us and get involved. Be proactive, get great exercise, meet new and longtime residents, socialize and clean up!”

Andrew Colabella (front row, center) and friends picked up trash last weekend at the Greens Farms train station.

=======================================================

Just after 6 p.m. yesterday, the Westport Fire Department, Police Department and EMS responded to a multi-vehicle crash in front of 40 Bridge Street.

One driver was trapped, and required extrication with hydraulic tools. The patient was transported to the hospital.

No other injuries were reported. Be careful out there!

Bridge Street accident. (Photo courtesy of Westport Fire Department)

Earlier in the day, the Fire Department responded to a kitchen fire on Berndale Drive.

It began when an electric stove knob was bumped accidentally. That activated a burner, which set fire to items on the stove.

“Do not store items on your stovetop,” the department emphasizes.

Berndale Drive kitchen fire. (Photo courtesy of Westport Fire Department)

======================================================

Pianist Chris Coogan is a local legend.

He grew up here. He has made Fairfield County his home — and home base for his multi-faceted music career.

Coogan is a world-class jazz pianist; a sensitive and popular accompanist for singers; a powerhouse Gospel pianist, choir director and bandleader; a highly effective and inspiring educator, and an all-around good guy.

Saxophonist Greg “The Jazz Rabbi” Wall met Coogan shortly after moving to Westport almost 10 years ago. They share a deep spiritual attachment to American music that digs deep into its roots.

Coogan and the Jazz Rabbi join bassist Boots Maleson and drummer Jim Royle for this Thursday’s “Jazz at the Post” (January 12, shows at 7:30 and 8:45 p.m.; $15 cover; dinner at 7 p.m.).

Reservations are strongly recommended: JazzattthePost@gmail.com.

Greg Wall and Chris Coogan.

=======================================================

Today’s serene “Westport … Naturally” Burying Hill Beach scene comes from grateful nearby resident Wendy Levy.

(Photo/Wendy Levy)

=======================================================

And finally … today is the birthday of Scott McKenzie. The singer is known for just one song. But it’s a generational anthem.

(Hippies looked down on money. “06880” does not. To contribute, please click here. Thank you!)

6 Comments

Posted in Entertainment, Police, Transportation

Tagged , , , , , , ,